OREM—Utah Valley had a late opportunity to pull even, but a 74th-minute penalty kick was saved as the Wolverines dropped a 1-0 decision to in-state rival Utah State on Monday night at UCCU Stadium.
With the loss, Utah Valley falls to 0-2-1 on the season, while Utah State improves to 2-1-1.
Utah State broke through in the 35th minute when Ellie Hendrix settled the ball outside the box, moved to her left and curled a shot into the left side of the net to give the Aggies a 1-0 advantage.
Utah Valley pushed for the equalizer in the second half and earned its best opportunity in the 74th minute. Following a review for a handball in the box, the Wolverines were awarded a penalty kick, but Utah State goalkeeper Ivy Nystrom made the save to preserve the Aggies' one-goal lead.
Despite the result, Utah Valley head coach Chris Lemay was encouraged by his team's performance.
"We can't evaluate ourselves solely on the scoreboard," Lemay said. "Obviously, it's Division I college soccer and you want to win, but with that being said, you can play well and not get the result. I felt like we did a lot right tonight. I thought that we created a number of chances in the second half."
Utah Valley finished with a 13-11 advantage in shots and generated eight corner kicks to Utah State's three. The Aggies held a 9-5 advantage in shots on goal.
Emily Bergero made eight saves for the Wolverines, while Josie Clawson recorded a match-high four shots, including two on goal. Sam Curtis added three shots with one on frame.
Lemay said the Wolverines will turn their attention to Thursday night's matchup against No. 12 Kansas.
"Right now, if we didn't have bad luck, I don't think we'd have any luck," Lemay said. "I'm just going to try to keep their heads up. Obviously, we've got nothing to lose against a nationally ranked opponent on Thursday, and that's where our focus is going to go."
Utah Valley continues its homestand Thursday against No. 12 Kansas at UCCU Stadium. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. MT.
